How To Host A Virtual Dinner Party During The Pandemic

Hosting a dinner can be an exciting yet slightly overwhelming experience. There’s the menu to prepare, the table to set, the seating chart to make–the list goes on and on. But now that everyone is experiencing social distancing due to COVID-19, mealtime just got easier (and harder) simultaneously. On the one hand, you might have your nearest and dearest close to you, and on the other hand, some relatives won’t be able to make it to upcoming festivities. With Easter and Passover soon upon us, you’ll need to know how to host a virtual meal during the pandemic. It’ll make for the most memorable meal ever!

Plan the Menu

If far-flung relatives won’t be in attendance,
it can make mealtime planning a lot easier–and more fun! Get everyone in on a
video call and plan the menu together. Find out what everyone is interested in
eating (for example, Grandma Rose might prefer a traditional ham, while your
cousin would rather carve a turkey). Then, create a menu that includes
everyone’s food choices, so you’ll all know what will be served at each other’s
homes come the big day.

Get Dressed

If you have family and friends coming over,
would you show up in sweats? Probably not. So even though you won’t actually
all be in the same room together, dress up for the occasion. Put on some fancy
duds and get dressed for dinner. If you look better, you’ll feel better. And
remember, you’re going to be on camera, so if the family decides to take a
group pic, you want to look presentable!

Set The Table

Serving your meal on paper plates? You might
want to think twice about that. Now, more than ever, every day is a cause for
celebration. And as such, you should strive to make it as festive and fun as
possible. So serve your dinner with the finest and fanciest plates and silverware that you own. After all, even though you’re
not together, you can still enjoy each other’s company, even if it’s
virtual.

Be Thankful

It’s easy to get upset about the current state
of affairs. All this talk of social distancing and quarantines can leave
everyone feeling uneasy. But that’s why it’s important, now more than ever, to
have an attitude of gratitude. Look for things to feel grateful for, whether
it’s the fact that you’re able to spend all this extra time with your family,
or that you can make a meal together at the end of the day.

Make It A Tradition

When the final chapter of this Coronavirus novel
comes to a close (and one day, it will), you might want to think about
continuing this tradition of having virtual meals with your family. It might be
for smaller holidays, or for times when a family member is sick and can’t be in
attendance. Sometimes, breaking bread can be done miles away–but still feel
like you’re in the same room.

Although it might not be the most ideal
situation, hosting a virtual meal gives you the best of both worlds. You’ll get
to enjoy a delicious meal and have quality time talking (and connecting) with
your loved ones.